Verdence Capital Advisors, a Maryland-based registered investment advisor and multi-family office, has entered into a strategic equity partnership with Wealth Partners Capital Group and HGGC to support its next phase of growth, including mergers and acquisitions, organic expansion, and enhanced client capabilities.
The investment will be made through Wealth Partners Capital Group and HGGC’s Aspire Holdings platform, with Verdence’s management team retaining significant ownership in the business following the transaction. Financial terms were not disclosed, and the deal is expected to close in April 2026, subject to customary conditions.
Founded in 2017 and headquartered in Hunt Valley, Maryland, Verdence provides an integrated platform spanning wealth management, financial planning, and family office services. The firm also operates an RIA+ platform that supports independent advisors with back-office services, investment research, and access to private market opportunities. As of December 31, 2025, Verdence managed approximately $4.6 billion in assets.
The transaction marks an exit for Emigrant Partners, which had invested in Verdence in 2021 and is now selling its stake.
Support: Advisors on the deal included Fenchurch Partners as financial advisor to Verdence and Alston & Bird as legal counsel.
KEY QUOTES:
“We could not be more excited to partner with WPCG and HGGC for our next phase of growth. WPCG’s track record is exceptional and we are proud to be one of the few RIAs with whom they have partnered. Our firms share a client-first philosophy and a belief that disciplined growth strengthens our culture, expands our capabilities and enhances the experience we deliver to clients. From our first meeting with WPCG and HGGC, it was clear this was the right partnership.”
Leo Kelly, Chief Executive Officer of Verdence Capital Advisors
“We are confident this partnership will allow us to continue growing the Verdence brand while preserving the culture and values that define our firm.”
Thomas New, President of Verdence Capital Advisors
“Verdence is a firm with an impressive track record anchored by strong leadership and a deep commitment to clients. The breadth of the platform across private wealth, family office and advisor services reflects the strength of the business that Leo and his partners have built. We are excited to support the team as they continue to serve more clients with more capabilities across a growing footprint.”
John Copeland, Managing Partner of Wealth Partners Capital Group
“We have long admired Verdence’s thoughtful approach to platform expansion and appreciate the firm’s deep commitment to protecting and stewarding the financial lives of its clients. We look forward to partnering with WPCG and the entire Verdence team in support of the continued growth of the business.”
HGGC
“Verdence has experienced significant growth since our initial investment in 2021, and we’ve had the opportunity to partner with Leo and the team on a wide range of organic and inorganic initiatives. They have strategically expanded their national footprint, broadened their capabilities and built a robust technology platform over the last five years – and we look forward to seeing how Verdence will continue to grow and build off of this foundation.”
Jenny Souza, President & CEO of Emigrant Partners
